Insights & Trends Phone System

The 10 best VoIP providers in 2026

10 min read

Published on January 6, 2025

Photo depicting an agent talking on a headset, using a VoIP system to connect with a customer
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Voice over internet protocol (VoIP) is a technology that allows you to make calls over the internet instead of a phone line. It is an advancement that shook the industry by digitizing phone-based communication and is a fine example of how the right technology can transform business communication for the better, often at a fraction of the cost.

 

We’ll compare features such as call quality, reliability, pricing, call forwarding, and voicemail to pinpoint which solution is best for your needs.

The 10 best VoIP providers

  • Zoom Phone for AI-powered cloud phone system
  • Ooma for ease of use
  • Vonage for versatility
  • RingCentral for scalable phone communication
  • Nextiva for customer service
  • Dialpad for SMB scalability
  • 8x8 for value
  • Intermedia Unite for third-party integrations
  • Grasshopper for small businesses
  • Google Voice for Google Workspace integrations

Key strengths

Typical use cases

Cost considerations

Speed considerations

GoTo Webinar

Events
  • Interactive engagement tools, robust analytics

Starting from $49/organizer/month, billed annually; up to 250 Participants

Ooma

Ease of use
  • Call forwarding
  • Voicemail-to-email
  • Call recording

Ooma Office Essentials: $19.95/user/month

Vonage

Versatility
  • Auto-attendant
  • Call routing
  • Advanced analytics

Mobile: $13.99/month/line

RingCentral

Large teams
  • Team messaging
  • File sharing

Core: $9.99/user/month for 1-5 users

Nextiva

Customer service
  • Call analytics
  • CRM integration

Core: $30/user/month

Dialpad

Scalability
  • Call transcription
  • Sentiment analysis

Standard: $15/user/month

8x8

Affordability
  • Advanced analytics
  • Reporting

Custom pricing

Intermedia Unite

Third-party integrations
  • Email hosting
  • Call analytics

Unite Pro: $27.99/user/month

Grasshopper

Small businesses
  • 24/7 support

True Solo: $14/month (1 user)

Google Voice

Free VoIP solution
  • Call forwarding
  • Voicemail transcription

Free

1. Zoom Phone for AI-powered cloud phone system

Screenshots of the Zoom Phone user interface

 

Best for

All-in-one unified communications

G2 rating

Pros

  • Comprehensive feature set

  • AI-powered functionalities

  • Scalability

  • Global reach

  • Strong security measures

  • Mobile app

  • Customization options

Cons

  • Can be costly for larger enterprises

Key features

  • Voicemail prioritization

  • Chat (presence, 1:1, and team messaging)

  • Escalate to Zoom meeting

  • Post-call summary & next steps

  • Voicemail task extraction

  • Video conferencing

Starting price

  • U.S. & Canada Metered: $120/year/license

Zoom Phone is a cloud phone system with a single, easy-to-use interface that allows you to make and receive crystal-clear phone calls. It’s designed to surpass the traditional limitations of a landline phone and enable your team to connect and collaborate whether they're on a mobile device, laptop, or desk phone. 

Features like global call routing, auto attendants, call queues, call recording, and shared line groups are only a portion of Zoom Phone’s capabilities, which cater to a variety of VoIP needs, from operations to advanced analytics and reporting.

Zoom Phone also allows users to leverage third-party integrations like Google, Slack , Salesforce, and more to bolster existing communication and collaboration processes. In addition, Zoom Phone features a contact center integration functionality that adds CCaaS solutions like Five9 and Twilio Flex to your communication ecosystem. 

Zoom Phone features AI-powered capabilities, including voicemail prioritization, call summary, voicemail tasks, and call transcriptions, saving you time and effort.

You have the option to choose between phone plans only or bundle plans that include Zoom Phone and Zoom Workplace. While the former costs less, the latter includes the phone system features alongside a comprehensive unified communications platform that can help your team collaborate more efficiently.

As your business scales and your focus shifts towards reaching customers on channels beyond phone systems, consider platforms like Zoom Contact Center, a CCaaS platform designed to support growing teams’ needs, all within the Zoom ecosystem.

2. Ooma for ease of use

Screenshot of the Ooma user interface

 

Best for

Ease of use

G2 rating

Pros

  • Intuitive platform

  • Mobile app

Cons

  • Pricier than other solutions on the market

Key features

  • Call forwarding

  • Voicemail-to-email

  • Call recording

Starting price

  • Ooma Office Essentials: $19.95/user/month

Ooma is a VoIP service designed with simplicity in mind, making it a great choice for those who want to avoid the complexities of traditional phone systems and tap into a range of features that simplify your communication needs. 

From call forwarding and voicemail to virtual receptionist and call blocking, it provides the tools you need to manage your calls effectively. And with the Ooma mobile app, you can access these features anytime, from anywhere. 

With Ooma, you can enjoy unlimited nationwide calling at no extra cost, making it a cost-effective alternative to traditional phone plans. If you’re looking for a VoIP service that’s easy to use, reliable, and affordable, Ooma is an excellent choice.

3. Vonage for versatility

Screenshot of the Vonage user interface

 

Best for

Versatility

G2 rating

Pros

  • Robust feature set

  • Mobile app

  • High quality audio

Cons

  • Complex UI

  • Pricier than other solutions on the market

Key features

  • Auto-attendant

  • Call routing

  • Advanced analytics

Starting price

  • Mobile: $13.99/month/line

Vonage stands out in the competitive VoIP market due to its impressive versatility. One of its key strengths is its compatibility with various devices and platforms. Whether you prefer using your smartphone, tablet, or computer, Vonage helps maintain a consistent and reliable experience across the board. 

In addition to its versatility in device compatibility, Vonage also excels in offering a comprehensive suite of features. From call forwarding and voicemail-to-email to advanced analytics and reporting, Vonage equips users with the tools they need to optimize their communication strategies.

For businesses looking for a scalable VoIP solution, Vonage’s customizable options make it an attractive choice. Whether you need to increase or decrease the number of lines or add new features, Vonage can easily accommodate those changing requirements.

While Vonage may not be the most budget-friendly option on the market, its versatility and advanced features make it a compelling choice for businesses that prioritize functionality and customization.

4. RingCentral for scalable phone communication

Screenshot of the RingCentral user interface

 

Best for

Large teams

G2 rating

Pros

  • Highly scalable

  • Strong security measures

  • Mobile app

Cons

  • Complex setup and configuration

  • Steep learning curve

Key features

  • Team messaging

  • File sharing

Starting price

  • Core: $9.99/user/month for 1-5 users

RingCentral caters to the needs of large teams and enterprises. With robust features and scalable infrastructure, it offers a comprehensive solution for streamlining communication and collaboration efforts.

RingCentral can integrate various communication channels, including voice, video, and messaging. This unified approach eliminates the need for multiple systems and simplifies communication workflows for large teams.

RingCentral’s VoIP solution comes batched with its own unified communications features, such as team messaging, file sharing, and video conferencing which facilitate efficient collaboration and knowledge sharing. These tools empower teams to work together more effectively, regardless of their physical location. 

RingCentral isn’t the most budget-friendly option for small businesses, but it remains a solid choice for larger enterprises given its comprehensive features and scalability potential.

5. Nextiva for customer service

Screenshot of the Nextiva user interface

 

Best for

Customer service

G2 rating

Pros

  • Mobile app

  • Comprehensive set of features

  • Customization options

  • Excellent customer service

Cons

  • Steep learning curve

Key features

  • Call analytics

  • CRM integration

Starting price

  • Core: $30/user/month

Nextiva stands apart from other providers for its focus on delivering reliable service. Beyond its core features, Nextiva’s VoIP solution comes bundled with communication solutions like team messaging. It offers a range of tools designed to enhance customer interactions, such as call analytics, sentiment analysis, and CRM integration. These features empower businesses to gain valuable insights into customer behavior and improve their service.

Nextiva’s commitment to customer service extends beyond its product features. The company provides excellent customer support according to user reviews, shining in its ability to assist customers with questions or issues. This personalized support provides a smooth and hassle-free experience.

6. Dialpad for SMB scalability

Screenshot of the Dialpad user interface

 

Best for

Scalability

G2 rating

Pros

  • Voicemail transcription

  • Smart call routing

  • Mobile app

Cons

  • Limited customization

Key features

  • Call transcription

  • Sentiment analysis

Starting price

  • Standard: $15/user/month

With its scalable infrastructure and flexible features, Dialpad can accommodate the evolving needs of growing businesses. It stands apart for its ability to scale up or down to meet your specific requirements, like easily accommodating new hires, additional phone numbers, analytics, and increased call volume. Dialpad has the capacity and features you need to support your communication needs.

Another example of Dialpad’s flexibility is the features included in each of its pricing plans — businesses pay only for the features and users they need at each level. As your business grows, you can easily add new users and features without incurring significant costs.

7. 8x8 for value

Screenshot of the 8x8 user interface

 

Best for

Affordability

G2 rating

Pros

  • Contact center solutions

  • Customization options

Cons

  • Unclear pricing range

Key features

  • Advanced analytics

  • Reporting

Starting price

  • Custom pricing

8x8 offers a comprehensive suite of features. The platform’s per-user pricing format, alongside its feature-rich plans, provides smaller teams with value.

Like many of the other solutions above, 8x8 comes bundled with multiple communication tools for your team including video conferencing and team messaging. Beyond that, 8x8 offers a comprehensive platform without breaking the bank. In addition to its affordability, it features a high level of reliability and call quality. With a robust cloud infrastructure, it’s a stable and secure platform for businesses of all sizes.

8. Intermedia Unite for third-party integrations

Screenshot of the Intermedia Unite user interface

 

Best for

Third-party integrations

G2 rating

Pros

  • Seamless integration options

  • Advanced analytics tools

  • Mobile app

  • Unlimited calling

  • Consistent user interface

Cons

  • Limited call monitoring

  • Only two service plans

Key features

  • Email hosting

  • Call analytics

Starting price

  • Unite Pro: $27.99/user/month

Intermedia Unite focuses on integration functionalities, allowing you to connect your VoIP and communication systems with CRM platforms, project management software, and collaboration tools, creating a more cohesive and efficient workflow.

It also features tools like call analytics and reporting, which go a long way in gaining valuable insights into communication patterns, identifying areas for improvement, and streamlining processes.

9. Grasshopper for small businesses

Screenshot of the Grasshopper user interface

 

Best for

Small businesses

G2 rating

Pros

  • Cost-effective

  • Easy to use

  • Analytics and reporting

Cons

  • Lack of video conferencing features

  • Lacks features like call whisper, visual IVR, and skills-based routing

Key features

  • 24/7 support

Starting price

  • True Solo: $14/month (1 user)

Grasshopper is a great option for small businesses that want a simple and affordable VoIP solution. The platform is designed to be easy to set up and use, even for those with limited technical expertise. 

With just a few simple steps, you can have your virtual phone system up and running. As far as features are concerned, Grasshopper provides a collection of tools that are a great value for small businesses, including call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, and auto-attendant.

10. Google Voice for Google Workspace integration

Screenshot of the Google Voice user interface

 

Best for

Free VoIP solution

G2 rating

Pros

  • Integration with Google Workspace

  • Ring groups

  • User-friendly interface

Cons

  • Limited features

  • Limited third-party integrations

  • Limited customer support

Key features

  • Call forwarding

  • Voicemail transcription

Starting price

  • Free

Google Voice is a VoIP provider with a lot of value to offer. As part of Google Workspace, Google Voice integrates with other Google services like Gmail, Calendar, and Contacts. This can boost collaboration for organizations already operating within Google’s ecosystem, enabling teams to share contacts and calendars as well as streamline communication via calls, messages, and voicemails.

Even on the free plan, Google Voice has core features that are expected of a VoIP provider, like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, and call screening. The free version is limited to a single user, but paid plans allow entire teams to collaborate using the software and access more advanced features.

It’s certainly a VoIP provider worth experimenting with, though it lacks the advanced features that other providers offer, like call queues, advanced analytics, call reporting, and logs for different users.

What makes a good VoIP provider?

There’s a lot to consider when choosing a good VoIP provider. The goal is to find a solution that strikes a balance between core features and service quality. Here are elements to keep in mind while assessing your choices:

  • Call quality: Crystal-clear audio and consistent service should be your focus when assessing call quality. Low-quality audio, frequent call dropping, and poor connections negatively impact the customer experience.
  • Reliability: Choose a provider with a strong track record of minimal downtime and redundant systems to minimize interruptions. Frequent interruptions can disrupt workflows and reduce focus, leading to longer wait times and frustrated customers. By minimizing interruptions, businesses can provide a more positive and efficient customer experience.
  • Features: A good VoIP provider should offer essential features like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, and conference calling. A comprehensive suite allows you to tap into more advanced features like call recording, analytics, and integration with other tools.
  • Scalability: The provider should be able to handle your business’s expansion without compromising service quality.
  • Customer support: Evaluate how responsive the provider is in terms of support, speed, and effectiveness in addressing customer inquiries and issues.
  • Security: You’ll want a provider with robust security measures in place to protect your sensitive data. 
  • Integration: Check if the provider integrates with your existing business systems and applications. 
  • Pricing: Compare features and pricing to determine the best value for your budget.
  • Ease of use: Choose a provider with a simple and intuitive platform, and evaluate the ease of setting up your VoIP system and managing your account.

How Zoom Phone helps unify your communications

Zoom Phone is more than just a VoIP service. It’s part of a unified communications powerhouse that offers a comprehensive suite of features that goes far beyond basic calling. With Zoom Phone part of Zoom Workplace, all your communication needs are combined into a single, easy-to-use platform.

Elevate your VoIP experience by leveraging a robust range of features, revolutionizing how your business approaches communication and collaboration without compromising service quality.

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